Sinus pain is the result of a swollen and inflamed sinus cavity, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Pressure builds up in the head, pressing on various parts of the region such as the inner-ear, the upper teeth and the eyes. Sinus pain as a result from allergies and may be treated with Allegra-D. Allegra-D is a prescribed drug that combines an antihistamine with a decongestant to reduce allergic reaction symptoms and swelling in the sinuses that cause sinus pain.
Fexofenadine
Fexofenadine is the antihistamine drug used in Allegra-D. Fexofenadine works by prohibiting the body from releasing high levels of histamine in the body. The immune system of a person with allergies does not recognize a particular substance, such as pollen, and will attempt to attack the substance with histamine. Taking fexofenadine reduces the over-reaction of the immune system which triggers sinus congestion and drainage. Fexofenadine does not help with sinus pain directly. Instead, it is a preventive medicine to reduce an allergic reaction that may lead to sinus pain.
Pseudoephedrine
Pseudoephedrine is the "D" in Allegra-D. Pseudoephedrine effectively reduces swelling in the sinus cavity by restricting blood flow to the sinuses, according to Drugs.com. Pseudoephedrine causes the sinuses to return to a healthy size, allowing drainage to resume. By reducing the swelling in the sinuses, sinus pressure diminishes, providing sinus pain relief. Pseudoephedrine does not treat the pain directly; instead it treats the nasal congestion that leads to sinus pressure and pain.
Dose
Doctor's prescription orders should be followed exactly when taking Allegra-D. This medication should not be taken for longer or shorter periods of time than recommended. The directions on the label should be read carefully and any questions brought to the attention of a doctor. Allegra-D is commonly given to children older than 2 once a day in liquid form. The children's dose is 5ml. Adults can take 10ml of Allegra-D once a day. If symptoms last longer than 10 days, seek medical advice.
Considerations
Allerga-D should not be taken by a person who is currently taking, or who has taken, an MAO inhibitor within the last 14 days. It could lead to a life-threatening situation. If the person suffers from kidney disease, heart disease, diabetes, urination complications, an enlarged prostrate, glaucoma or a thyroid disorder, he should talk with his doctor about the specific risks involved. Allegra-D should not be taken by a pregnant or nursing mom without talking to a doctor first.
Side Effects
Common side effects of using Allerga-D are nausea, gastrointestinal issues, dry mouth, skin rashes, dizziness, ringing in the ears, restlessness, insomnia and loss of appetite. A person who experiences the following side effects may be experiencing an allergic reaction to the medication and should seek medical attention immediately: erratic heartbeat, mental confusion, severe dizziness, severe headache accompanied by high blood pressure, unusual weakness, facial swelling, tongue swelling, hives, difficulty breathing or lack of passing urine.
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